What is colestipol?
Colestipol is a cholesterol-lowering drug.
Colestipol lowers "bad" cholesterol in the blood, which is also called LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol. Lowering your LDL cholesterol may reduce your risk of hardened arteries, which can lead to heart attacks, stroke, and circulation problems.
Lowering high cholesterol levels is an important part of preventing heart disease and arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries).
Colestipol may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about colestipol?
You should not take this medication if you are allergic to colestipol, or if you have a blockage in your intestines.
Before taking colestipol, tell your doctor if have trouble swallowing, constipation or hemorrhoids, a stomach or intestinal disorder, liver disease, a thyroid disorder, a bleeding disorder, a history of major stomach or bowel surgery, or if you have a vitamin A, D, E, or K deficiency.
Before taking colestipol, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding a baby.
Colestipol is only part of a complete program of treatment that also includes diet, exercise, and weight control. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely.
Do not take other medications at the same time you take colestipol. Taking colestipol can make it harder for your body to absorb certain drugs, making them less effective. Take your other medications at least 1 hour before or 4 hours after you take colestipol.
Avoid constipation by drinking 8 to 12 full glasses (8 ounces each) every day while taking this medication. Ask your doctor before using a laxative or stool softener.
Call your doctor at once if you have severe constipation or stomach pain.
To be sure colestipol is helping your condition, your blood will need to be tested often. This will help your doctor determine how long to treat you with colestipol. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking colestipol?
You should not take this medication if you are allergic to colestipol, or if you have a blockage in your intestines.
Before taking colestipol, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:
trouble swallowing;
constipation or hemorrhoids;
a stomach, intestinal, or digestive disorder;
liver disease;
a thyroid disorder;
a bleeding disorder;
a history of major stomach or bowel surgery; or
if you have a vitamin A, D, E, or K deficiency.
If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take colestipol.
This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
Taking colestipol can make it harder for your body to absorb certain vitamins. These vitamins are important if you are nursing a baby. Do not take colestipol without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Some forms of this medication may contain phenylalanine. Talk to your doctor before using colestipol if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).